helix(1)
Helix is a post-modern text editor written in Rust with built-in LSP support, tree-sitter syntax highlighting, and modal editing.
Synopsis
hx [OPTIONS] [FILE]...Description
Helix is a modern modal text editor inspired by Vim and Kakoune, featuring first-class language server protocol (LSP) integration, tree-sitter-based syntax highlighting, and multi-cursor editing. It provides an intuitive command palette, sensible defaults without requiring extensive configuration, and built-in theming support.
The editor uses modal editing (normal, insert, and select modes) and combines the best aspects of Vim's command structure with more accessible keybindings. Helix includes features like fuzzy file finding, project-wide search and replace, and inline diagnostics from language servers.
Common options
| Flag | What it does |
|---|---|
-c, --config | specify a custom configuration file path |
-g, --grammar | fetch or build tree-sitter grammars |
-v, --version | print version information and exit |
-h, --help | display help message and exit |
--health | check LSP and language support configuration |
--tutor | start interactive tutorial for learning Helix |
Examples
open a Rust file in Helix for editing
hx myfile.rsopen all Python files in the current directory
hx *.pycheck LSP configuration and language support status
hx --healthlaunch the interactive tutorial to learn Helix basics
hx --tutoropen script.sh and jump to line 10, column 5
hx +10:5 script.shopen Helix with no file; use :open command inside to load files
hx